The directive was to write an essay as a child during the American Revolution. Perry wrote as a son who accompanied his father to Lexington-Concord and subsequently has to tell his mother about his father being killed there.

Social studies teacher Betty Nafziger used the contest as an assignment while her classes were learning about the American Revolution.

“Besides content — being historically accurate — they also had to type their entry and include a bibliography,” Nafziger explained. She sent all class essays to the competition.

The contest organizer sent Nafziger a letter stating Perry was the chapter winner and also commended Kally Arnzen, Justin Biebow and Tyler Stephens for “exceptional essays” and sent certificates for all four students. Perry and his parents are invited to the February meeting of the DAR where Perry will be able to read his essay and will be awarded there. His work will then be forwarded on to the state contest.